New APS program brings more clean energy to Arizonans
Solar energy is in big demand, and at APS, we have more than 1 million solar panels on our system — and counting. One way that number will grow is by expanding access to solar to even more customers. Our new APS Solar Communities program does exactly that. It is a unique opportunity for APS customers (both homeowners and renters) who want to help advance solar energy in our state and enjoy monthly savings.
Here’s how it works: APS installs solar panels on the houses of qualifying limited- and moderateincome customers, and in exchange, they receive a $30 credit on their monthly bill over the next 20 years. This adds up to annual savings of $360 and $7,200 overall.
There are a few requirements to participate in this free program. First, customers must meet the income eligibility guidelines, which are outlined at www.aps.com/solarcommunities. The income requirement is based on federal poverty guidelines, and income must be verified. Second, the home must be a single-family residence (mobile homes do not qualify). It must have a roof that is in good condition, a west or south-facing side that is not shaded, and a minimum square footage of 245 square feet for at least 14 solar panels.
After reviewing the program details, if you meet the requirements and want to participate, applying is easy. Don’t wait though, because participation is limited, and qualified customers will be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis. Start by completing a brief online application. After your information is verified, a local installer will come out to inspect the roof and make sure everything looks good for the solar panel installation. Using highly qualified Arizona-based installers, our local partners will put the panels on your roof according to your schedule. Next, we’ll do our own inspection to make sure the system is correctly connected to the grid, install a production meter to make sure the system is producing as it should, and turn it on. An advanced inverter also will be installed, which will allow our teams to monitor the amount of energy that is being produced and help ensure reliability for all customers. Once the solar panels are up and running, customers will begin seeing a $30 credit on their monthly bill.
We’ve designed this program to be as simple as possible for our customers. APS will own and maintain the solar panels, so there’s no upkeep of the system required.
The APS Solar Communities program is truly a win-win. Arizonans doing right for Arizona by expanding access to clean energy throughout our state.
Today, APS delivers 50 percent clean energy using a mix of solar, energy efficiency and nuclear power from Palo Verde Generating Station, our country’s largest producer of carbonfree energy. We are always looking for ways to add more clean energy while balancing the need to have affordable and reliable power. We are excited to introduce APS Solar Communities to our customers, and hope you’ll look into participating in this great program.